Faculty of Planning, Environment and Urban Management - Thesis work collection

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[PROJECTING ALBANIA] Ideas generated from research and thesis works 2011-2014 autor: POLIS UNIVERSITY copyright: POLIS UNIVERSITY printed by: layout & design: Dea Buza english edition: Ardit Lila & Kleitia Vaso collaborator students: Xhorxho Kita; Rigers Murati; Madalena Canaj; Efijeni Kokedhima; Shega Erebara; Viola Deti; Jona Osmanaj POLIS UNIVERSITY contact: Rr. Bylis 12, Autostrada Tiranë-Durrës, Km 5, Kashar Kodi Postar 1051, Kutia Postare 2995 Tiranë, Albania Tel: +355 (0)4.2407420 / +355.(0)4.2407421 Fax: +355 (0)4.2407422 Mob: +355 (0) 69 40 88 111 Email: contact@universitetipolis.edu.al Website: www.universitetipolis.edu.al

ACKNOWLEGMENT

POLIS University is a private university founded in 2006 as a spinoff entity of Co-PLAN / Institute for Habitat Development, a non for profit organization established since 1995. POLIS represents an experimental, avant-garde, and progressive university with main focus on raising human capacities in fields of architecture, urban planning, art design, environmental studies, energy efficiency and civil engineering. It was in 2011 that the first generation of POLIS students graduated, and most of the graduates were soon after employed at public and private administration or self-employed in their own private studios.

The publication presented is a modest summary of the ideas coming from Research Thesis Works of the graduates of Bachelor Programs (3-year programs, full-time, 180 ECTS); Professional Masters Programs (2 year-programs, part-time, 90 ECTS), Master of Science Programs (2 year-programs, full time, 120 ECTS) and Integrated Master of Science Programs (5 year-programs, full-time, 300 ECTS).

On the occasion of this publication POLIS University would like to acknowledge the great role of the academic staff and tutors, the hard and excellent work of students, and all passion and commitment of their families and support staff. We have joined efforts and are doing our best to build a better country and fairer society and to do this we have chosen the way of investing in human capital because we strongly believe that it is through this investment that the progress and development of this country will come.

U_POLIS Dr. Prof. Besnik Aliaj, POLIS University Rector Doc. Sotir Dhamo POLIS University Administrator Dear friends of POLIS,

In these few lines, we would like

er became an institution of training and

cians but needs professional expertise. In

ademic circles and associations of higher

to share with you some values, ideas, and

a promoter of good governance, author

the Albanian context, in which scientific

education in Europe. This is also reflected

efforts that led us to the establishment of

of many projects thanks to the assistance

research with practical value has so far

in the recently granted “Research Uni-

POLIS and its further consolidation as an

of international and local funding. In this

been discontinued and does not corre-

versity’ status and the certification of the

institution of education and alternative

sense, as an institution, POLIS is a reflec-

spond to the international standards, for

programmatic and institutional accredi-

intellectual ideas. Together with other

tion of how we have tried to involve,

POLIS and the generation of researchers

tation.

co-founder colleagues of POLIS, mem-

work, and learn. Within its extended fam-

and talented young people, research and

bers of the “generation of changes” in the

ily, Polis has already generated several

innovation are a way to help develop-

but it has a clear social mission deter-

’90s, we were all witnesses and partici-

initiatives, social movements and trends

ment. This is why POLIS aims to go be-

mined by its origin. The university in-

pants of the events that occurred in Al-

of different natures which aim to bring

yond its academic role as an institution.

cludes many volunteering and social

bania before and after the change. Con-

new perspectives to society.

To do this, beside two faculties, it has

responsibility activities, expressed in the

sidering this, POLIS aims to test the social

An important role here is also played

now established also the Research and

assistance provided for marginalized

impact of a new generation of alterna-

by the academic processes and scien-

Development Institute(RDI), as well as a

local authorities and people in need, in

tively educated students in the fields of

tific works, including thesis works from

experimental center for innovation (IF).

the assistance provided to local govern-

architecture, urban and environmental

the graduation process. Although this is

The complexity of issues of Albanian re-

ments and the governments in general,

planning, applied design, and engineer-

just the beginning, through these tools

ality is among the most challenging, and

through volunteer work and assistance

ing. Thus, Polis tries to influence the en-

POLIS has created discussions and de-

their confrontation with the expertise

which is manifested in free consultancy

tire society by viewing the educational

bates on topics almost untouched by

and the international consultancy of ac-

projects, awareness campaigns on social

process as a form of optimism which

Albanian society in relevant professional

ademic institutions becomes even more

problems, etc. Similarly important to us

enables continuity and growth through

fields of design and city sciences, making

complex. Such exchange and confron-

is the educational and research motto ‘…

the transmission of knowledge and con-

younger generation realize that there

tation with international partners with

Being good professional means first of all

fidence to students. We would not con-

are many ways of solving concrete prob-

whom POLIS has established institutional

to know how to give love to people…’. In

sider our job complete if we transmit to

lems. Opening the mind and a positive

partnerships, will enable us to overcome

this regard POLIS is a long term project,

our students expertise and passion only

approach to problems are an important

the “monopoly of mind” which still “holds

in which we want to share our modest

in these areas; above all, we must equip

part of the transmission of “secret knowl-

hostage” the knowledge and information

efforts with others because we believe

students with the ability to transform

edge” and its translation into action. In

in Albania and isolates it from younger

that in this way we can better achieve our

such fields in Albania.

essence, we strongly believe in the real

generations. Beyond that, we strongly

social mission!

possibility of positive change and growth

believe in the ability to bring innovation

nership, processes and debate, practical

of the Albanian society!

to our areas of interest and to impact so-

tion that in order to change the world,

experience at a higher academic level,

POLIS aims to set an example

ciety. Therefore thesis research works has

one must dream. Thus, do not hesitate to

are the basis of the DNA inherited from

as an expert group bringing alternative

been one important instrument. All these

join us sharing our space for thought!

Co-PLAN, a community-based organiza-

ideas to development policies; we think

factors made POLIS a reference point

tion founded in the early ‘90s which lat-

that policy is not only done by the politi-

within the country, with the respect of ac-

Trust in the concept of part-

POLIS is a private institution

We continue to hold the convic-

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FPMMU Faculty of Planning, Environment, and Urban Management

URBAN PLANNING & URBAN MANAGMENT 1. Master of Science (Full-time, 300 ECTS, 5 years) 2. Professional Masters (Part-time, 90 ECTS, 2 years)

- Urban Social Development & Human Resources

- Housing & Land Development

- Spatial Planning & GIS Application

ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES 1. Bachelor Studies (Full time, 180 ECTS, 3 years) 2. Master of Science (Full or Part time, 120 ECTS, 2 years)

FPMMU | 8

Prof Dr. Sherif Lushaj Dean of Faculty of Planning, Environment & Urban Management

COMBINING TEACHING WITH RESEARCH – A BASIS FOR PROFESSIONAL AND SCIENTIFIC EDUCATION OF THE STUDENTS

The new realities and the atti-

dents’ engagement in research is most-

The diversity of diploma thesis topics

ment of economy, issues of environment,

tude of the society towards environment

ly seen as an opportunity to link theory

chosen by students in the field of envi-

tourism, environmental degradation, soil

and spatial planning

is increasingly

and practice and is done with the aim to

ronment, urban planning and manage-

use, water resources and management ,

becoming a hot issue in the agenda of

enable students perform research work

ment or spatial planning has enabled

river mismanagement, waste manage-

policy makers. It definitely asks for pro-

with clear objectives either independent-

POLIS students and academic communi-

ment , air, water and soil pollution etc.

fessional engagement and responsible

ly or in a team on topics that contribute

ty to engage in continuous professional

The research in the fields of environment

management. POLIS university as a think

to the solutions of different issues the

debate /dialogue during thesis review

and planning helps the progress and de-

tank institution with main focus on ur-

country is facing.

sessions. At POLIS students are encour-

velopment, it verifies problems and in-

ban and environmental management

aged to treat important issues / topics of

creases the knowledge and understand-

has continuously tackled such issues and

engage students in scientific research is

local and national importance.

ing of young researchers regarding new

many of them have been included in the

Diploma Thesis undertaken by students

For several years now students

environment and planning realities at

research agenda of the university.

of all levels : Bachelor, Master of Sciences

have been directly engaged in the prepa-

global and local scale. Through scientific

The Faculty of Planning, Environ-

or Professional Master. The preparation of

ration/design of spatial plans for differ-

research contribution of the students PO-

ment and Urban Management at POLIS

Diploma thesis beside being mandatory

ent municipalities and communes of

LIS is currently giving important answers

University, as its name suggests, has its

, traditional, kind of individual vision, is

the country. Their products have been

to questions about current development.

main focus on urban planning, environ-

also increasingly turning into a good op-

admired and highly appreciated by local

Engaging students in research at ear-

mental studies and urban management.

portunity to engage in a concrete project

authorities and communities, and some

ly stage has definitely enabled them to

Though a relatively new Faculty, it contin-

/ work that serves to increase and deep-

of the proposed plans have even start-

better face difficulties and challenges of

ues to grow and consolidate and on our

en knowledge and attain skills to better

ed implementation. Other research has

the labor market and has built a good

way forward we realize that the learning

put them into practice, especially when

been focused on sustainable develop-

reputation for POLIS ”product”. Being

process and research work should go to-

dealing and facing unknown problems

ment of natural resources, management

aware of the difficulties and challenges

gether and be complementary. It is true

that ask for certain solutions. At POLIS

plans for land use, building landscapes,

this process implies and its crucial impor-

that research is not an easy engagement

we strongly believe that not engaging in

improving green public space and other

tance for the future of the county POLIS

, on the contrary it is a serious commit-

scientific or applied research is a lost op-

issues faced in the professional attempt

is determined to develop such skills and

ment that asks for good planning, good

portunity to develop further, and it can

to harmonize people’s needs with natural

contribute to the creation of the genera-

coordination and mobilization of human

leave students with some superficial the-

resources.

tion of young researchers.

capital and other resources as well, but

oretical knowledge useless in practical

also for financial support. At POLIS stu-

terms.

dealt with include : sustainable develop-

One of the main forms used to

Some other issues students have

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Urban Managment & Urban Planning 2011 - 2012 Dashnor Poçi.................................................................12

Kedis Burrja...................................................................26

”INDUSTRIAL RIVITALIZATION”

“RE-DEFINITION OF PUBLIC SPACE”

Ela Goxhaj....................................................................14

Mario Shllaku................................................................28

“TIRANA WATERFRONT”

“DRIVE CITY”

Elvis Gjika......................................................................16

Mirzeta Kashnica.........................................................30

“HOW CAN TIRANA MAKE EFFECTIVE USE OF THE BUILD ENVRIONMENT, EVENTS, FLAGSHIP PROJECTS AND EDUCATION TO PROMOTE ITSELF!” Ermir Nasi.....................................................................18

“SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT”

“FAST SLOW TERRITORIAL SYSTEMS”

“SUSTAINABLE TOURISM”

Fatjon Devollaj..............................................................20

Renaldo Gaçe..............................................................34

“SOLID WASTE MANAGMENT”

“PEZA VISION DEVELOPMENT”

Gëzim Bela...................................................................22

Silvi Jano.......................................................................36

“GREEN CORIDOR”

“PUBLIC SPACES OF TIRANA”

Iris Kashariqi.................................................................24 “REAL ESTATE MARKET IN ALBANIA”

Refation Dobi...............................................................32

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INDUSTRIAL REVITALIZATION

OLD INDUSTRIAL SITES BY IDENTITY PRESERVATION Student: Supervisor:

Dashnor Poci Eltjana Shkreli

This research thesis is focused on the possibilities and methods of preservation and redevelopment of the industrial heritage in Tirana including multiple issues, varying from economic profit, leisure activities, regional marketing and economic characteristics and chances.

The main research question was the redevelopment of a former factory complex in order to make these formerly abandoned places into once again thriving hubs of activity. Looking at the characteristics of the industrial sector in Tirana and to what extent these characteristics contribute to defining the cultural identity of it, which composes this industrial identity, leading to the relevant question of how one can describe this industrial DNA. The goal of the research was to find out to what extent the city of Tirana could use its industrial DNA to contribute to the spatial, economic and tourist development, using as a case study the former Kombinat industrial area.

The reclamation projects of this derelict industrial area follow design principles that promote sustainability,

reduce negative environmental impacts, and promote economic prosperity, social inclusion and a better quality of life. For this reason, it should be emphasized that the interlocking relationship between design and management is a particularly important feature of any design process (Lyle, 1985).

In conclusion, this new redevelopments in post-industrial landscapes helps people realize that reclaiming, restoring and giving new uses to industrial landscape are indispensable actions to in guaranteeing landscape sustainability.

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TIRANA WATERFRONT

NEW CONCEPT TO PRESERVE THE RIVER Student: Supervisor:

Ela Goxhaj Besnik Aliaj

This research thesis is focused on the study of the sustainable development of river waterfronts. Albania, since the 90s, experienced a development of the phenomenon of occupying and using areas around water bodies. This phenomenon is associated with an uncontrolled development that has led to the degradation of areas due to a lack of infrastructure and plans as well as the pollution of water bodies.

This research which addresses the issue of the integration of the riverfront with the urban area around it and the downtown in order to create a new type of developing of urban rivers in Albania, focusing on the case study of the Tirana River. The aim of the program is to encourage economic development and increase the quality of the city’s living environment.

The aim of my project is to articulate an idea of the development of the northern part of Tirana, as a mixed land use site, equally capable of handling business, commercial, retail and res-

idential applications with public parks as civic spaces. The project will include: River Redevelopment / Revitalization/Settlements and mixed land use development projects/ Public and private partnership.

This project envisions the transformation of the waterfront side into a series of mixed - use, urban precincts integrated with green parks, waterfront activity, employment and a recreation area that can connect the side with the city. Also, it will create a new image for the area surrounding the Tirana River.

The significant contribution of this research to the body of knowledge is that it has examined the issues of waterfront development from the contextual integration of the physical and functional dimensions with the water, which has not been addressed by previous researchers.

In conclusion, the key reasons discovered contributed to why the waterfront is not contextually integrated with the water from the perspective of a major city centre in Albania.

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HOW CAN TIRANA MAKE EFFECTIVE USE OF THE BUILD ENVRIONMENT, EVENTS, FLAGSHIP PROJECTS AND EDUCATION TO PROMOTE ITSELF! Student: Supervisor:

Elvis Gjika Elona Karafili

This research thesis deals with city-branding strategies and management. The dissertation will focus on the case study of Tirana. Currently, Tirana conjures up negative imagery that unfortunately has earned the capital city of Albania the reputation of a dirty, poor and dangerous place.

Therefore, the aim of the thesis is t the definition of a branding strategy that differentiates Tirana from other cities, so it can attract new citizens, tourists, companies etc. and, at the same time, maintain the spirit and the current energy of the city.

Actually, Tirana is part of the global market, and the city needs to compete strongly in order to be attractive.

That is why a new branding strategy is needed.

The branding concept is based on these late transformations that are happening in Tirana, particularly related to the construction industry and urban design developments. The project idea is the creation of a new important architectural development in the center of Kombinat, which will provide and be utilized for the following activities: an Architecture, Planning and Design University, a Museum of Architecture and Design, Conference halls for architecture and design.

This are will promote an image of Tirana as an Architecture and Urban Design City. The final product presents several strategic policies of branding and recommendations for implementation.

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FAST- SLOW TERRIORITAL SYSTEMS

TRANSFORMATION OF REGIONAL CORIDOR TIRANE-DURRES Student: Supervisor:

Ermir Nasi Sotir Dhamo

This thesis research deals with the dynamics of the transformation of the Regional Corridor Tirana-DurrĂŤs in view of a new vision for its future potential development. Originally, this corridor along the Tirana-Durres national highway was spontaneously designated as an industrial and economic area. Currently, under the impetus of development, a strategic plan is needed in order to manage and orient the development of this complex mixed use matrix, considering small residential settlement, shopping malls, motor shows, showrooms, industrial silos, offices and various private and public institutions.

The research project aims to rediscover the hidden potentials of the corridor and, on this basis, to propose a new vision and detailed design projects that

would lead to new developments which will transform the area. It will mainly focus on the linear segment that begins in the roundabout in the main entrance of Tirana and will continue in Vora for about 12.5 km. After defining the main vision, the project will give case-by-case solutions according to the circumstances and strategic elements involved along the highway for each of the perpendicular sections that crosscut important centralities.

The research outcomes are a general vision of the area and a series of small projects that can be implemented separately according to a priority program defined according to the general vision.

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SOLID WASTE MANAGMENT

PROJECT TO MANAGE WASTE IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Fatjon Devollaj Elona Karafili

This thesis deals with a plan for the management of urban solid waste.

The goal of the plan is to minimize the impact of waste on the environment. The plan highlights some issues that need to be addressed in order to improve the way in which urban solid waste and the environment are managed. The implementation of the residues’ hierarchy, prevention, preparation for reuse, recycling, processing and storage is also crucial for the long-term sustainability and for the management of waste in Albania.

The Local Plan of Tirana regarding waste is based on the city’s development strategy, which emphasizes that the development of the city of Tirana is directly linked to the environmental con-

ditions and waste management. The environment is defined as one of the city’s four areas of future development and the plan’s aims regarding it seek to improve the quality of life relying on the management of certain items such as the waste collection, recycling, composting, landfills, and profitable energy treatment.

The aim of the research is the categorization of the waste hierarchy towards regional solutions for handling or storing final waste, minimizing the amount of waste that ends up in landfill-performing initiatives and processes for prevention, reuse, recycling and treatment for energy benefits. The final product is an action management plan.

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GREEN CORIDOR

PROJECT FOR SUSTAINABLE TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Gëzim Bela Eltjana Shkreli

This research thesis is focused on the topic of green corridors and their contribution towards increasing environmental sustainability in the city. Green corridors are indications of the establishment of an ecologically-oriented urban structure. The main goal of the Urban Ecological Corridor is the facilitation of the movement in the city and the reduction of the risk of extinction of species inhabiting the areas besides urban development. Development may cause the excessive fragmentation of habitats and the isolation of small creatures as a result of urbanization. This way, it could be possible to save the river corridors untouched, to achieve the plan’s potential connections with areas that are subjected

to fragmentation, and to promote local corridors which are more success than regional corridors.

The research uses Tirana’s green regional corridors as a case study, including several local green corridors, giving each of them a different status depending on the characteristics of each area.

The final project develops a land use plan and a program of activities for significant areas along the green corridor. It also includes type sections of the Green Corridor, proposing pedestrian roads, bike roads, green parks, recreational areas near the lake, zoological park, botanic park, hiking area, market and other commercial activities.

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REAL ESTATE MARKET IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Iris Kashariqi Elona Karafili

This thesis proposal centers around the process of lending. In recent years, lending has shrunken largely due to the World Financial Crisis (which led to the Euro Crisis) which has given its effects in Albania. As a result of the crisis, the number of bad loans has increased.

Stoppage of lending has caused demand to significantly fall in the market for apartments in recent years, although high prices have remained almost the same. If the credit lending had continued as before, as a direct result of demand, prices would continue to rise making the housing situation in Tirana critical. The absence of a long-term plan of the city has resulted in disoriented and out-of-control. Originally, illegal buildings have occupied a considerable space of land, therefore

less available construction land. Due to demand for construction on the side of developers, land prices go up, so construction costs are higher.

The development of the city remains concentric. Buildings in the suburbs can be sold at lower prices, but given that there is a lack of infrastructure, public transport, activities and services, potential buyers do not rush to make purchasing decisions.

The aim of the thesis is to understanding the real estate market in Tirana, explain developments based on facts and figures and, in conclusion, provide a set of recommendations / policies / develop a strategy that would lead to an improved functioning of the real estate market and increased affordability for housing.

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RE-DEFINITION OF PUBLIC SPACE

NEW CONCEPT OF SPACES IN CITY OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Kedis Burrja Eltjana Shkreli

This research thesis is focused on the study of the “no man’s land” areas in the cities and investigates their potential as public spaces. With the lack of public spaces nowadays in our city, these voids and unused spaces can become vital elements for social interaction.

The research will first explore the character of these spaces and their change in over time specifically referring to the Albania case study confronted with the Balkan experience. In ex-socialist countries, mostly located in the Balkan area, the transition from one region to another was reflected with changes in the way of thinking. As a reaction to the former system, people ended up occupying

and reducing public spaces. There are many cases of old “ex-green areas” or public spaces, transformed into steel or concrete buildings. Given After the first background presentation, the thesis focuses on the case study of ‘Blloku’ in Tirana. Although from a social perspective, it represents one of the richest areas in Tiranë, it looks as quite the opposite is taking place. Places for socio-cultural activities are turning into places for trade or advertisement activities.

In this context, the aim of the research is to sensitize citizens on the importance of the “no man’s land” areas and to make people aware of their role in preserving and improving public space.

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DRIVE CITY

CREATIVE PLANNING THROUGH NEIGHBORHOOD LEVEL IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Mario Shllaku Eltjana Shkreli

This research thesis explores the topic of creative planning and community participation on a neighborhood level.

The need for doing this research came from the neighborhood itself, which as a new part of Tirana, is a dormant area and, increasingly, short of a developing vision and regulatory planning, is falling under the developers’ pressure to build high-rise.

The research focuses on the case study of Yzberisht in Tirana, Albania. By introducing a creative planning toolkit, this neighborhood could become an essential part of the identity of Greater Tirana, and promote a better quality of life. Albania is a very curious case from an urban planning point of view and has the perfect conditions for better understanding the two basic and extremes planning approaches: the Top-down and

Bottom-up approach, which are currently experiencing a lot of problems.

The aim of this thesis is to determine a planning strategy based on cultural, soft, aspects of creativity, in order to develop a sustainable neighborhood.

From an urban planning point of view, the thesis offers strategic and integrated planning through the application of cultural resources in the development of the city and society, away from the traditional, physical interventions of urban planning. In terms of the creative city theory, the thesis represents an honest attempt towards the practical translation of this theory. In addition, in urban anthropology, the thesis modestly contributes to a better understanding of the internal migration of the population in Albania, and their culture when confronted with the big metropolis of Tirana.

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SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION

CONCEPT FOR OUTER RING ROUND IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Mirzeta Kashnica Besnik Aliaj

This research thesis approaches the topic of sustainable transportation specifically in the case study of the road segment from Kavaja’s street to Elbasan Street (currently under construction), part of “ The corridor based transportation plan” for Tirana’s Outer Ring Road. This Outer Ring of Tirana will be treated according to the most innovative methodologies and concepts of transport. The project will introduce the most innovative visions of contemporary ring roads in the city, and will conclude with a project of a Sustainable Transportation Corridor.

The expected result of this research is an approach based on the Corridor Transportation Plan for The Outer Ring of Tirana and moreover the proposal of an appropriate design for the road with European parameters. Specifically, the project provides three types of corridors: the Urba_Business Corridor (developing the economic component), the Wild_Life Corridor (developing the environmental component) and the Rura_ Scape Corridor (developing the social and rural components ). For each sector, a land use policy, priority areas with environmental sensitivity and categorization of roads according to the arterial segment will be determined.

In conclusion, the research will present a framework of recommendations for stakeholders/ policy - makers involved in this process.

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SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

NEW PERCEPTION FOR THE COASTAL ZONE IN DURRES Student: Supervisor:

Refation Dobi Eltjana Shkreli

This research thesis is focused on the policies and implementation methods of the promotion of coastal touristic areas. Nations that promote their coastal areas for purposes of tourism are increasingly becoming aware of the need to protect these areas and maintain their natural beauty so as to help ensure their long-term vitality as touristic destinations.

Today’s tourists have a greater understanding of tourism and are demanding more sustainable tourism products. In essence, the majority of tourists today are looking to satisfy their need for leisure, recreation and discovery in a way that is friendly towards the natural, cultural and social well-being of the destinations they visit.

The purpose of this research is to explain how the tourism sector could coordinate effectively in the development of

coastal zone in Durres and contribute to the long-term sustainability of this area.

This document was designed to be practical and easy-to-use and provides an introduction to the key tools to be used during the different stages of the planning process. Furthermore, it identifies the stakeholders that are critical in the successful delivery of the various stages of the process.

This research is targeted at the local decision-makers. It is also envisioned to support those who are affected by the development of tourism. Nowadays, tourism plays an important role in the different levels of the debate on politics, culture, and social integration, the growth of the local economy on a national and an international level, from the written and visual media to the notes of the policymakers.

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PEZA VISION DEVELOPMENT

NEW SCENARIOS AND PLAN FOR PEZA Student: Supervisor:

Renaldo Gaçe Eltjana Shkreli

This thesis deals with the purpose of creating a guiding vision of the touristic development of Preza, as part as of a regional plan. From the first territorial analyses, the high landscape quality and this area’s particular dominant position with its interesting panoramic itineraries becomes clear. However, this area is almost unknown and unexplored by tourists because of a missing development strategy.

Thus, this research aims to propose a guide that will orient the future development of Preza as a garden city mainly based on the appreciation of the welcoming landscape and the valorization of historical heritage like the Castel of Preza, which, in the guide’s concept was considered as the focal point of the

new development. Furthermore, the project aims to create a green network in the region that connects Preza to the main cities like, Durrës, Kruje, and Tirana. In this context, Preza could play a complementary role offering recreational activities in natural areas.

The final project builds various scenarios of the infrastructure’s development, which is the key action for developing this area in a sustainable way. So, all the scenarios are careful about protecting the natural landscape as part of a national park.

In conclusion, this strategic guide can serve as good example of an ecological and sustainable development of areas with high landscape values.

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PUBLIC SPACE OF TIRANA

INTRODUCING POCKET PARK TYPOLOGY Student: Supervisor:

Silvi Jano Eltjana Shkreli

This thesis interrogates the conditions and role of small public spaces internal to the neighborhood. Traditional public spaces have been host to many political, social and economic activities throughout history. From the early days of the agorae in Greece, where bustling trade took place in the Palace Royale in Paris where the political revolution occurred, public space has been at the core of many cities’ most important happenings. Different approaches throughout history can be clearly seen but, nowadays, public space struggles with new issues such as privatization and over-commercialization. Public spaces will need to adopt a balanced approach to accessibility, to sustain both business and community interests and to make it worth the time and expense that is spent developing them. Public space offers elements that create a city’s character and, if they are treated correctly, helps to vitalize it.

The purpose of this research was to provide a brief overview of how public space has developed historically in Albania and in particularly, in Tirana, while introducing e new typology of public space: the Pocket.

Although this typology is very tiny in scale, it was best rated in the successful public places -matrix done specifically for this research.

The final project has taken as a case study one of these pocket parks and proposes a design project in accordance and with the contribution of the community. One of the unique and exciting characteristics of pocket parks are that they may be created out of vacant lots or otherwise forgotten spaces and gaps between buildings.

In conclusion, since the pocket parks are currently an underused space, they are a valuable resource that the city can use in a more dynamic way.

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Urban Managment & Urban Planning 2012 - 2013 Albi Hasa......................................................................40 ”CAR FREE DEVELOPMENT”

Elvis Lila.........................................................................54 “TIRANA GREEN BELT”

Arion Sallauku..............................................................42

Florentina Dollani.........................................................56

“POLICIES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISTICS PORT”

“RE-DEVELOPMENT OF EX-INDUSTRIAL AREAS”

Endrit Gallo...................................................................44

Genc Minarolli..............................................................58

“THE IMPORTANCE OF PUBLIC SPACE ON SOCIAL LIFE”

“FAST MOVEMENT”

Ermir Nasi.....................................................................46

Gerti Delli......................................................................60

“FAST SLOW TERRITORIAL SYSTEMS”

“GLOBAL TRANSIT PORTS”

Ermal Kola....................................................................48

Marseda Allabeju........................................................62

“BALDUSHK - URBBAN PLANNING”

“CAR FREE DEVELOPMENT”

Gëzim Bela...................................................................50

Nermin Bajrami............................................................64

“GREEN CORIDOR”

“PARTICIPATE PLAN”

Ersila Collaku................................................................52 “SUSTAINABLE TOURISTIC DEVELOPMENT FOR THE CITY OF POGRADEC”

| 40

CAR FREE DEVELOPMENT

BIKE-PEDESTRIAN FRIENDLY “MYSLIM SHYRI” CASE Student: Supervisor:

Albi Hasa Ernest Shtepani

This research thesis deals with urban regeneration and, in particular, with a series of instruments and policies that aim at the revitalization, restoration of activities, and the growth of competitiveness in the international context and, furthermore, the implementation of initiatives that improve the environmental quality.

The research is focused on the case study of the former airport area, in Tirana. Tirana is a classic example of a rapid urban growth. This rapid growth has caused negative effects on the urban pattern and most of the consolidated and

traditional urban areas have been destroyed.

Therefore, the aim of this thesis is to propose an appropriate strategy of urban regeneration for an area that is in a phase of rapid transformation, but still without a strong identity. The proposed master plan is based on a concept of a new centrality including a university campus, a cultural centre and a river park.

This complex constitutes the area’s core of activities and is supposed to be a catalyst for the urban regeneration of the surrounding area.

| 42

POLICIES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISTICS PORT STUDY CASE OF DURRES Student: Supervisor:

Arion Sauku Nasip Meรงaj, Ledio Allkja

This research thesis is focused on the coastal infrastructure and the development of tourism in Albania. First, the thesis explores the specificity of the Albanian coast and different types of development, including the typology of harbors, the characteristics of the coastline, the economy of the territory etc, and their impact on the development of tourism.

Afterward, the study narrows its focus on the Lalzi Bay area. This place has only recently turned into a coastline, frequented by a large number of domestic tourists.

The Lalzi Bay Beach has been for many years a virgin coastline, with a natural

environment made of pine woods, ending towards the Rodoni cape. The first stripe is sandy and the second stripe is surrounded by a green belt of pines. Small settlements or touristic resorts are organized on the opposite side of the Durres coast. These resorts have not spoiled the coastline. At the end of the Lalzi bay, is Rodoni, which is a hill that forms the last barrier on the beach. This is the new development area. The final master plan of this area provides a new touristic settlement and a touristic port nearby which is well connected with the national infrastructural axes.

| 44

THE IMPORTANCE OF PUBLIC SPACE ON SOCIAL LIFE NEW IDENTITY FOR SPACES IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Endrit Gallo Elona Karafili

This research thesis investigates the importance of public space for social integrity, identity, and everyday life.

First, the thesis will focus on the study of public space in Tirana and its evolution in time up to the current situation. The empirical findings actually emphasize the lack of public spaces.

The purpose of this research was to identify some potential voids that can become public spaces, facilitating meetings and exchanges between communities. However, this research uncovered the necessity of covering a much wider

geographical area across borders and theoretical approaches that focus on the balancing from top-down and bottom-up and the comparison with other cases of studies from the wider Balkan region.

The final project is a functional plan for the usage of public space in the Stadiumi Dinamo area.

In conclusion, the final results present several recommendations for improving public spaces from an aesthetic and functional point of view and to for implementing these actions through public- private partnerships.

| 46

LAND USE PLAN FOR BALLDUSHK COMUNE Student: Supervisor:

Ermal Kola Elona Karafili

This thesis is focused on the methodology of a land use plan and on the priorities of for the development of the small Commune of Balbushk in the Tirana Region. Baldushku has an enjoyable environment and the natural landscape along with its people’s hospitality is the most important asset of this commune.

The aim of the research is to orient the development through the proposal of some strategic activities.

The main proposed activity was the development of agriculture, a plan that is closely linked to the rural character of this area. Furthermore, the territorial parks can become an opportunity for residents and tourists to spend a pleasant time in contact with nature.

The agricultural parks are combined with vineyards along the hills of recreational parks, the river, and lake in that area. Hills will be seen as agricultural islands interconnected through panoramic paths. The agricultural park in the lowland area will focus on agricultural development.

These initiatives intend to use the already-existing infrastructure and irrigation. The lake was considered a hilly park station where the continuity through the forest, agriculture, viticulture is possible. This development will be important because it will further develop leisure and recreational activities and, at the same time, will provide a unique view of the hills.

The final result of the thesis is a land-use plan in which the main economical and social fields of development are defined. In additions, the research offers some recommendation regarding the restoration of the river’s surroundings and the landscape conditions.

| 48

SUSTAINABLE TOURISTIC DEVELOPMENT FOR THE CITY OF POGRADEC Student: Supervisor:

Ersila Çollaku Ledio Allkja

This research thesis is focused on tourism the development of tourism in the Pogradec region.

Nowadays, tourism is very important, especially for the economy of the region.

The development of tourism in our country is fundamental as it possesses a range of touristic resources. In particular, the Pogradec area is a closely connected to the presence of the lake.

The aim of this research is to define the necessary conditions that lead to the development of tourism in this region ac-

cording to a national and cross-board strategy based on the specialization of the regions in different types of tourism.

Furthermore, the research presents a vision of the touristic development of the city.

The research concludes with a set of recommendations, which will assist in the development of tourism in Pogradec. The primary recommendation was for tourist activities to be spread throughout the year.

| 50

TIRANA GREEN BELT

NEW IMAGE FOR THE CITY OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Ervis Lila Ledio Allkja

This research project is focused on a strategy for the establishment of a Green Belt in Tirana. The plan will include not only the municipality of Tirana, but aims to be a part of a territorial strategy.

Actually, the city of Tirana is looking for opportunities to enhance the quality of design, the construction of parks and public building sites so as to improve the carrying capacity of these lands, as means of meeting the leisure needs of the community. The city hall has to encourage public and private owners of natural lands to preserve and maintain the environment and its functions through the management and design principles for the protection of it, in order to minimize negative impacts on natural quality lands.

The project managed to rehabilitate the city of Tirana regarding the protection of

urban open spaces and natural resources which are only accessible for the purposes of leading a healthy life, full of creativity and opportunities, equal to any green European city.

This green area will create a new image for the city of Tirana, which, in turn, will enable the revitalization of the train station area, including the Tirana River and the Lake of Paskuqan. The goals are: creating more recreational areas with features, services and functional activities, increasing accessibility from Tirana to Paskuqan, and enabling the growth of land, while protecting open spaces and their evaluation.

The final result is the design project of Tirana’s Green Belt developed along the Tirana River.

| 52

RE-DEVELOPMENT OF EX-INDUSTRIAL AREAS THE STUDY CASE OF GRAMSH CITY Student: Supervisor:

Fiorentina Dollani Ledio Allkja

The research of this topic was focused on Brownfields (former industrial sites), the problems of these areas, the reasons why they should be redeveloped and the gain of positive impacts from redevelopment.

The topic is closely connected to the history of the development of industries in Albania and the problems reflected in the post-communist period who are still present today. The economy in former small industrial towns is a major problem and any instrument or political development does not provide the rehabilitation needed for these former industrial sites to

give life to these cities.

This research is focused on the case study of Gramsh’s former industrial areas and aims to redevelop this former industrial area by proposing financially-savvy and light industrial activities that can help improve the economy of the city.

The final product is a master plan design proposal that highlights not only the transformation of ex-industrial buildings, but mainly the improvement of public space and the simulation of social interaction.

| 54

FAST MOVEMENT

DEVELOPMENT OF NEW COMUNICATION BETWEEN TIRANA - DURRES Student: Supervisor:

Genci Minarolli Ernest Shtepani

This research thesis dealt with fast transportation as an important factor of in the development of the Tirana-Durres region. New developments along this axis accompanied by an increased need for communication will increase traffic over the years and overload this area to the point of collapse.

The aim of this research is to study and define the most suitable means of communication along the axe as well as guarantee a connection and service for people working or living between DurrĂŤs and Tirana.

The project proposed a light amount/ means of transportation as a way of supporting the sustainable development of the rural area. Specifically,

the project provides the revitalization of the rail by installing a light wagon tram (light) which will work through electricity.

This new transport will reduce vehicle use, urban pollution, travel time and transport costs. The line connects two major metropolises with stations located in 3 main nodes: Kashar, Vore ,SukthTaskin. A second line will provide connections with the airport, thus positively affecting the reduction of traffic and greatly contributing to the sustainable development of the metropolitan area.

The final result of the thesis is the rail transportation plan of the metropolitan area which integrates the entire system of small settlements located near the highway.

| 56

GLOBAL TRANSIT PORTS

STUDY CASE OF DURRES CITY PORT Student: Supervisor:

Gerti Delli Mario Shllaku

This research thesis investigates the role of port infrastructure in the transit trade and solutions on how this can be improved. The dissertation aimed to give an overview of the Albanian port infrastructure and the links with the main Mediterranean ports, one of which is the Gioa-Tauro (Grand Harbour, Marsaxlokk) of Malta. Albania has a strategic geographical position and can serve as a bridge between the Balkans and the Mediterranean countries. The countries interested in the trade transit through the Albanian coast infrastructure are Kosovo, Montenegro, Bosnia & Herzegovina, a part of Serbia, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, Ukraine and part of European Turkey. Many of the countries mentioned above have significantly lon-

ger distances to cover using either marine or and terrestrial infrastructure compared to Albania.

The research results in a detailed study on trans-Mediterranean infrastructure, proposing the construction of a new port in Shengjin which will compete with the port of Rijeka as well as the expansion of the port of Vlora which will compete with the port of Thessaloniki. The current trading ports of our country like ShĂŤngjin, the port of Vlora and the largest port of the country, the port of Durres, cannot currently compete with other ports in the region, because they lack the current favorable capacities needed to compete with Major Mediterranean Sea ports.

| 58

CAR FREE DEVELOPMENT

PEDESTRIAN FRIENDLY “MYSLIM SHYRI” CASE Student: Supervisor:

Marseda Allabeju Ernest Shtepani

This research thesis investigates car-free development strategies as a tool for the sustainable development of our cities.

First, the research attempted to understand and summarize a wide range of activities and lessons learned from different cities around the world seeking an alternative to motorized development.

Nowadays, motorized vehicles play a great role in every person’s life, being the symbol of the modern life. However, in the last two decades, a few cities and communities have started to better understand their role in the environment.

Highlighting the various problems that car

dependency has caused to humans, they demonstrate that life without a car is not as impossible as one thought.

The research involved undertaking an international literature review followed by national surveys so as to gain an understanding of some of the motivations and barriers associated with walking and cycling, evaluating the situation and recommending policies and projects to be taken into consideration in a period of thirty years from now.

The final proposal is the conversion of an important street to a pedestrian areas used as public space and the design project of this area.

| 60

PARTICIPATE PLAN

THE STUDY CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Nermin Bajrami Mario Shllaku

This research thesis investigates the role of community participation projects in an urban development plan. In Albania’s current situation, projects are developed non without considering public participation. Consequently, there is an urgent need to increase people’s participation in community projects not only as recipients of development programs but also as critical stakeholders that have an important role to play in the management of programs and projects in their areas.

The research focuses on the case study of the Tirana Boulevard and explores the solution proposed by the plan and

by the different “Boulevard” competition proposals. Since this project is based on community participation, its point of view is the main factor of this idea. The project proposal developed in this thesis gives a solution that tries to best meet all community needs.

The final product is a proposed master plan with classical closed square volumes with an indoor courtyard, green roofs that affect the comfort of the residential area as well as improve the aesthetic and functional aspects of the object. The project design is the result of a participatory planning process.

| 62

Urban Managment & Urban Planning 2013 - 2014 Bledi Isaraj....................................................................64

Imeldi Sokoli..................................................................78

”CORIDOR OF ‘BERAT - GJIROKASTER - JANINE’ LIKE A STRATEGY FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT”

“INSTRUMENTS OF CROSS- BORDER COOPERATION & REGIONAL PLANNING”

Eneida Cela..................................................................66

Julian Kapllani.............................................................80

“WELL-MANAGING PUBLIC ASSETS AS AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OPORTUNITY FOR LOCAL GOVERMENT”

“PARTICIPATION IN PUBLIC SPACE AND ROLE P OF DESIGN ON STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY AND GENDER EQUALITY OF PUBLIC SPACE”

Eranda Janku...............................................................68

Malvina Disha..............................................................82

“ALBANIA 2030 - A NATIONAL SPATIAL VISION FOR THE TERRITORIAL DEVELOPMENT IN ALBANIA”

“TIA”

Egi Bozo........................................................................70 “POLICIES FOR STABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT IN COSTAL AREAS”

Kejt Dhrami...................................................................84 “NORMATIVITY IN CITY PLANNING DRAFTING ENHANCED AND REALISTIC PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT IN STANDARDS FOR SPATIAL TYPPOLOGIES IN ALBANIA”

Fabjola Meça...............................................................72

Rudien Cali...................................................................86

“INNOVATIVE INSTRUMENT OF LAND DEVEOPMENT IN ALBANIA”

“TRATING URBAN WASTE IN SHEN-GJIN MUNICIPALITY”

Fiona Imami...................................................................74

Shpend Balilaj..............................................................88

“ANALYSIS OF THE ATTRIBUTES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF URBAN POLICIES AND IMPACT OF TERRITORIAL DEVELOPMENT”

“DEVELOPMENT OF SOUTH THROUGHT REGIONAL IDENTITY”

Idit Riza.........................................................................76 “COMMUNITY LED PLANNING”

| 64

CORIDOR OF ‘BERAT - GJIROKASTER - JANINE’ LIKE A STRATEGY FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Student: Supervisor:

Bledi Isaraj Ledio Allkja

This research thesis investigates the impact of the improved road infrastructure segment of Berat-Gjirokaster-Janine in the further development of the Gjirokastra region. Currently, this track is scarcely used because of its poor conditions and shows signs of deterioration.

In this framework, the thesis aimed at the revitalization of the historic corridor of Berat-Gjirokaster-Janine. This corridor carries great potential for implementing sustainable development strategies at a regional level.

The thesis firstly focused on a detailed analysis and demographic, economic, infrastructural and touristic analyses were also taken into account in order to create a clear structure regarding its

function and goals.

By taking into account the historic material, similar studies, surveys and questionnaires, as well as visiting the terrain, the author accumulated a considerable amount of material to be used as a basis for the thesis.

The revitalization of the corridor will improve the region’s economic and touristic performance by strengthening the most important branches of the local economy, now in a fragile state. The needed infrastructural investment will increase the flux of movement, will improve the social, health, cultural and educational services, and will re-populate the area; thus, it would improve life the quality of life.

| 66

WELL - MANAGING PUBLIC ASSETS AS AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OPORTUNITY FOR LOClAL GOVERNMENT Student: Supervisor:

Eneida Çela Anila Gjika

This research thesis deals with the role of public assets management in the economical development of local governance and, in particular, the possibility of public –private partnerships.

Similar to many countries of the world, in Albania, the different methods of land managing are a main focus of research, being considered as a substantial source of income. Though there are changes in the level of development, structural problems, and so on, the legal issues regarding the management of public properties are similar.

As a result of transferring the responsibility of property rights from the Central Government to the Local one, the need for the good management of property at a local scale arose. Meanwhile, the Units of Local Government have been and are still unprepared to play the role of owners or land managers.

The purpose of this project was to evaluate the situation of managing public assets on a local level in Albania, referring to the practices of managing public assets in developed countries. This thesis intends to evaluate the process of managing public assets in Albania, as well as analyze and recommend the most appropriate options for managing local assets.

The final purpose of this study was to derive to a set of recommendations in order to maximize the economic potential of local assets, because of the legal possibilities that were offered to the ULG for property managing through the schemes of the Public Private Partnership, and to materialize the analysis and recommendations. In This thesis introduces a study case of applying PPP in the Korçë Municipality.

| 68

ALBANIA 2013 A NATIONAL SPATIAL VISION FOR THE TERITORIAL DEVELOPMENT OF ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Eranda Janku Besnik Aliaj, Ledio Allkja

One of the biggest challenges of our country remains the consideration of urban planning as a management tool for controlling development, in order to achieve territorial, social and economic cohesions. The transition from a centrally planned economy, where everything was controlled by the government, towards decentralization and market economy had many consequences, among which are: an uncontrolled and fragmented urban development, loss of agricultural land due to urbanization, concentration of population and dense urbanization in the major cities, abandonment of western lowland and eastern parts of the country etc.

Nevertheless, starting from 2006 the efforts for strengthening the role of territorial planning in Albania were intensified due to development needs, but also due to the requirements for the EU integration. One of the most important steps has been the reformation of the planning system and the transition from regulatory planning to a more pro-active planning process for the territorial development.

Inspired by this context and its

need for future sustainable development, this thesis project aims to help draft a series of national spatial concepts, which are then used to formulate an overall national spatial development vision for the territorial development. The work is based on a set of principles, including regionalism, polycentrism and growth poles, development corridors and free economic areas, natural potentials and green corridors.

This research work tries to build against the vacuum that is created in Albania by the lack of tradition of national spatial development policies and plans, on the conditions of market economy and freedom.

Therefore, this work is a modest practical and theoretical contribution to Albania with the hope that it could prove useful also for the Albanian authorities, while undertaking action at such a level.

In return, the Albanian case of national spatial visioning might serve as an interesting learning laboratory for the new science of spatial planning in Europe and beyond.

ALBANIA 2030 VISION

| 70

POLICIES FOR STABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT IN COSTAL AREAS Student: Supervisor:

Egi Bozo Ledio Allkja

This thesis deals with policies regarding the sustainable development of the Albanian coast. During the last years, the unstable development of these areas has often been brought to people’s attention. The research took as a case study one of the most chaotic areas of the coast: the Golemi area which was transformed in the last 20 years without any vision for the future.

By studying the phenomenon, the thesis reached the conclusion, of a need for fundamentally changing society’s mentality on managing the territory in at a national and local scale. Creating policies will be accompanied by the neces-

sary projects needed to implement them, both of which intend to achieve a different way of development especially in the coastal areas, which nowadays have a chaotic and unusual development.

This thesis takes into consideration the documents created on a national and local level, trying to analyze them and bringing numerous solutions (nowadays missing) for the coast, while restoring people’s trust in plans and planning. In conclusion, the main strategy proposed is the changing approach towards planning focusing on participatory planning and community projects.

| 72

INNOVATIVE INSTRUMENTS OF LAND DEVELOPMENT IN ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Fabjola Meçaj Rudina Toto

This research thesis investigates innovative instruments of land management.

National governments in some countries tend to create proactive practical models of land management instruments, such as the Betterment fee, or the Charge of the increased value.

What we benefit from implementing the Betterment fee is constructing the Northern Boulevard through the income that this program generates.

Six instruments of land management were studied in this thesis: the Betterment fee, Inclusionary housing, Transfer of the right of development, Land assembling, Land sharing and Sale development of rights. The Betterment fee was the instrument chosen due to its legal support by the Albanian Planning Law no. 10119, as well as it captures increased values in

a direct way compared to the other programs.

The northern Boulevard area was studied in order to project how each of the programs would possibly be implemented. On the other hand, the Grimshaw Project was also taken into account.

The New Boulevard of Tirana was taken as a case study, analyzing how public infrastructure affects the area and its property values. Based on the analysis’ results, the increased value of the properties results more than doubled compared to the actual one.

In conclusion, based on calculations, it resulted that the Betterment fee program is a very efficient one to be implemented in Albania. This program, applied only in nine subareas of influence, managed to cover all the costs of constructing the Boulevard.

| 74 Bathore & Paskuqani rru

ga

e“

Du

rre

sit

”

rruga

rruga e “Kavajes”

Kodra e Diellit

Fiona Imami Anila Gjika

it” san ba “El

STUDY CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Tirana

Kombinati e ga rru

ANALYSIS OF THE ATTRIBUTES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF URBAN POLICIES AND IMPACT OF TERITORIAL DEVELOPMENT

res” e “Dib

Sauku

Durres

diber

This research thesis investigates the role of the tax on immovable properties as the main revenue source for local government units in most developed countries. Despite its characteristics as an administrative instrument, which provides financial autonomy towards decentralization, property taxations is also considered also as a financial instrument which affects and guides land management and territorial development.

This thesis highlights this second dimension of property taxation, thus aiming to create, through a rigorous theoretical framework and practical analysis, a wider picture of how property taxation’s characteristics can impact territorial development and decision making in Albania.

In the actual situation, where local government units are unable to properly manage properties, control territorial development, and apply a well-designed fiscal instrument, this thesis raises the hypothesis that only by shifting to a value-based property tax, this fiscal instrument can further affect territorial development in the Albanian context. In

this framework, the quest for a methodology on how property taxation should be designed in order to impact territorial decision-making is addressed in 3 sub sections:

Understanding the general theoretical framework in which property taxation takes place and operates.

Analytically evaluating the three main characteristics of property tax and continuing with the composition of a theoretical matrix on how these three key elements interact and produce different approaches.

Understanding how the property taxation framework is set in the Albanian context and which further steps are needed in order to improve its performance in the aspect of contributing to urban development policies and land management.

In conclusion, this research study tries to build a general overview on the importance of property taxation, the implementation chronology, its advantages and disadvantages, the way it impacts urban-making policies and especially land management.

122

16

44

Vendet qe aplikojne taksen mbi pasurite e paluajtshme

Vendet qe aplikojne taksen ne baze vleren e tregut

Vendet qe aplikojne taksen ne baze siperfaqeje

8 Vendet qe aplikojne taksen mbi token dhe permiresimet

Kavaje

Tirana

elbasan

Liqeni Paskuqan

Tirana Liqeni i farkes

Liqeni Artificial i Tiranes

Fakt toka vete bjekt u s e esht ksimit i ta ! l arte me te Cdo lloj investimi qe rrit vleren e prones do te rrise vleren e tatueshme, per pasoje pronat jane subjekt i taksave me te larta

Tax mbi token vs. tax mbi token dhe permiresimet

Fakt i ne Taksim . sip e z a b shte nuk e te ! i drej

Ndalon !

Rritjen e menjehershme te zonave urbane

Taksa mbi token inkurajon zhvillimin ne formen me te mire

Vleresimi ne baze sip. vs. vleres se tregut

administrohen me Taksat me te Benefitet nga sherbimet lehte larta te pronave reflektohen me mire rezultojne ne ne vleren e tregut reduktim te Pronare/prona te ndryshme paguajne njelloj densitetit urban

Fakt

Si ndikojne percaktimet e nivelit te takses

ne encim Difer e takses in l nive = encim difer ona Ku sistem ndihmon e n pr

NJQV-te te menaxhojne me mire shperndarjen e takses ne zona te ndryshme

Nivelet e larta mund te ngadalesojne ose dekurajojne zhvillimin e tokes

Nivelet e uleta ne zona specifike mund te nxisin zhvillimin

| 76

COMMUNITY LED PLANNING STUDY CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Idit Riza Dorina Papa

This research thesis deals with tools and instrument related to sustainable neighborhood planning. It is focused on three main concepts: the neighborhood unit, community, and sustainability. The first is that of the “neighborhood unit�, which considers, of course, its physical profile, but mostly presents a more sociological and human description, trying to understand its role on one hand and show vulnerability towards its community.

The second concept of the thesis is the community, as the vital part of the neighborhood and as the most important driving-force in its meaning and shaping.

The third and last concept is that of social sustainability, playing the catalyst role of putting together the neighborhood and the community in order to give them an aspiration for a better future and the way to achieve it, through interesting and mostly proved studied of various known professionals of the field of urban planning, urban sociology, and health policies.

This research focuses on the case study of the city of Tirana, which is a very interesting example, with a long and drastically changing history of the traditional neighborhood, with a very high demographic movements and energy and with a total lack of sustainability.

Therefore, similar initiatives, studies and cases, of community empowerment in the planning process, were reviewed with a result of a new updated and legal-framework-based strategy of community-led planning suitable for the Tirana case study. It was further developed with detailed steps, focusing more on the first steps of organizing the community, which may be the most challenging.

In conclusion, this detailed plan at a neighborhood level based on community self-organization is very demanding for the circumstances where a General Plan is insufficient in guaranteeing the sustainable development of communities.

| 78

INSTRUMENTS OF CROSS- BORDER COOPERATION & REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Student: Supervisor:

Imeldi Sokoli Ledio Allkja

This research thesis evaluates the Instrument of Cross-Border Cooperation and their impact on regional projects. Actually, particularly in Albania, there are many difficulties in the institutional cooperation between the two sides of the border like the lack of initiative and informal functioning of the region, as well as a vague impact from the projects developed by this instrument.

The aim of this study is to bring solutions and improve regional planning visions. It takes as a case study the Shkodër-Podgoricë region, providing a more efficient way of using the Instrument of Cross-Border Cooperation, with the aim to of enlarging the impact of common projects for the whole region.

The main goal of this thesis is that

of planning a vision for the Shkodër-Podgoricë region that would introduce a strategic path for the regional development, intensification of the institutional cooperation, and coordination of the policies, exerting a larger impact on the region because of a more efficient use of the Cross-Border Cooperation funds.

The maximization of efficiency could be achieved by analyzing the implemented programs, noticing the problems, and implementing an innovative approach, on which the region will be developed.

The final outcome is a proposal of a cross-border cooperation project which is more likely to have a larger impact in the territory.

| 80

PARTICIPATION IN PUBLIC SPACE DESIGN, ROLE OF DESIGN ON STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY AND GENDER EQUALITY OF PUBLIC SPACE STUDY CASE OF FIER CITY Student: Supervisor:

Julian Kapllani Mario Shllaku

This research thesis analyzes the dynamics of the uses of public space in relation to human behavior. In principle, public space is defined as a social space, usually opened and accessible to all without any difference of gender, religion, or age. It belongs to society and is governed by law. All members of society are free to use it as they want and whenever they want, within the legal frame.

However, this meaning of this phrase is often misinterpreted, and the public space is only used as a gathering place, which is actually only one of the elements of a social space.

This thesis analyses the state of public space in different times and places in Albania and interrogates one of the main problems of public space: gender equality and the role that urban design plays in making gender equality easier, focusing on the case study of Fier. In addition, the research highlights the role

of the community in designating public space as an answer to this problem.

The quantitative and qualitative methods of research such as interviews, surveys, observations, terrain analysis including the analysis of the existing state, plans, the historic aspect, and the change of the area during time, ended up defining the right instrument of intervention which consisted not only of a design project but also in of programmatic and implementation strategies.

The final result was a workshop which was organized in one of the main public spaces of Fieri (the park area), which saw the participation of people of different genders, ages, representatives of different communities, and different actor such as civil society, municipality, etc. This was the first step of the programmatic implementation project proposed in this thesis.

| 82

TIA - TERRITORY IMPACT ASSESMENT Student: Supervisor:

Malvina Disha Rudina Toto

The purpose of this thesis was to define the characteristics of an assessment model for the Sectorial politics of waters, transposed from the 2000/60/ EC directive of the EU.

TIA (Territory Impact Assessment) started in countries like Austria and Germany, tending to assess the influence of large scale projects as infrastructural of water management projects, thus, an expost evaluation.

One of the conditions required to be a member of the European Union is

the implementation of the directives and regulations of the EU. Implementing them would certainly impact the territory. TIA is an evaluation program which assess the impact that these directives will have on the territory

In the case of Albania, TIA will help the EU integration process, the National General Plan and the Integrated Sectorial Plan of the Coast.Central government as well as the local government.

Experts of different fields must be involved in order for TIA to be applied.

| 84

ground space index

open space ratio

NORMATIVITY IN CITY PLANNING DRAFTING ENHANCED AND REALISTIC PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT IN STANDARD FOR SPATIAL TYPOLOGIES IN ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

network density

Kejt Dhrami Rudina Toto

This thesis research is focused on the current need for norms in city planning, in view of recent changes in the legislation concerning urban planning and development in Albania.

The research explores the best ways to set norms and indicators for the Albanian context, especially focusing on a typology-based definition. The quest for a methodology on how to set standards has been addressed in three directions: 1. The use of norms in planning/development standards in different planning theories throughout the last two centuries.

2. The use of norms in different planning systems, which will help understand what standards are used by different countries and how they relate to the legislative aspects of urban planning.

3. The analytical evaluation of standards, which is focused on the methodologies and components of an urban setting that need to be evaluated in order to have enhanced and realistic planning and development standards.

These tools were divided into 4 components: urban morphology, density, space syntax and an environmental character. After addressing the way each of

height

these elements influences the designation of standards, the conclusions on the use of this methodology are tested in 3 study samples.

This research study is an exploratory type of research which tries to give a contribution to a rather un-tackled field of study. It is also a descriptive research, aiming to identify and classify the main components needed to design urban standards. Furthermore, it is an applied research, in the sense that it seeks to contribute to the designation of standards and regulations in different levels.

The main aim of this research is transferring qualitative data into quantitative parameters in the most realistic and contextualized way. Quantitative data is prevalent when analyzing the indicators and standards used in Urban Regulations in other countries. The evaluation of analytical tools (morphology, syntax, environment, density) is done using both qualitative, interpretative data, giving a phenomenological aspect to the research, and quantitative data (way of measuring each component), which gives to the thesis some attributes of a positivist research.

tare

density

d2

d1 d3

distance public

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TREATING URBAN WASTE IN SHEN-GJIN MUNICIPLALITY Student: Supervisor:

Rudien Cali Redion Biba

This research thesis deals with the problem of urban waste management in Albania. This is considered one of the most important services of the Albanian Government. After the ’90, the researches done on the legal frame or policies show that many policies were created to produce a better management of urban waste during the time when the service was covered by the Central Government.

In 2000 with the “Law of Organ of Local Units”, and through the “Process of Decentralization”, this service became a competence of the Local Government. The Local Units will be able to apply a better service and measure the need for offering an efficient service. As the years pass, this service in Albania does not yet have

the expected high standards.

Thus, this research investigates Shëngjin as a study case, as for many years now, it has been a center of tourism.

The purpose of the study was to analyze the whole activity of this service in the Shëngjin municipality within the Albanian Legislation, Directives of the European Union and the Integrated Management of Waste. Furthermore, this study intends to orientate the Local Authority in creating this service from a positive financial perspective.

In conclusion, the thesis offers some recommendations regarding appropriate measures in order to provide a more efficient service.

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DEVELOPMENT OF SOUTH THROUGHT REGIONAL IDENTITY Student: Supervisor:

Shpendi Balilaj Ledio Allkja

This research thesis investigates how to use regional planning in order to achieve a stable development. Particular importance was given to the process of regionalizing the country into governing units. Albania, as a result of the centralized governing history, had an undeveloped regional governing. The existence of this problem was the main push in initiating this study.

This research outcome was further implemented using as a case study the regional development of the southern region in Albania, which could serve as a model of development for other regions.

Thus, the thesis was based on two parts:

A proposal based on previous theories for regional separation of the country, using regional identity as one of the indicators (theoretical analysis of the thesis) A proposal of development strategies of for a chosen region (practical implementation)

The final product is a regional strategy established through using the specific identity of the southern regions for developing a mixed tourism. The purpose was the promotion of touristic values and linking them by creating a network, proposing single strategic projects.

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PROFESSIONAL

MASTERS

2011-2014

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Urban Social Development & Human Resources 2012-2013 Isela Janku...............................................................................94 ”THE CONTRIBUTION OF COLORS IN ALBANIAN CITIES IDENTITY AND IMAGE FOCUSING ON THE CASE STUDY OF TIRANA”

Housing & Land Development 2012-2013 Besmira Dyca.........................................................................96 ”PROPERTY RELATIONS AND THE [TRANS]FORMATION OF THE URBAN BLOCK IN POST COMMUNIST CITIES” Elizabeta Poljoska.................................................................98 ”SKOPJE - A DIVIDED CITY” Fjolla Perjuci.........................................................................100 ”NATURAL KOSOVA” Mireda Thana.....................................................................102 ”HOUSING MARKET IN TIRANA”

Spatial Planning & GIS Application 2012-2013 Boriana Golgota................................................................104 ”LAND MANAGMENT INSTRUMENTS - FROM TIRANA LGP AT NEIGHBORHOOD LEVEL” Edlira Mema........................................................................106 ”ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE OF DURRES AND MANAGEMENT PLAN” Enejda Seraj........................................................................108 ”INFORMAL URBAN DEVELOPMENT IN TIRANA AND THE ACTUAL CHALLANGES AND PROPOSED SOLUTIONS” Johana Klemo......................................................................110 ”CITY IDENTITY, FASCIST URBAN PLANNING FOR DURRES” Klea Papando......................................................................112 ”IMPROVING URBAN MOBILITY” Orion Hasanaj.....................................................................114 ”SUSTAINABLE URBAN MOBILITY FOR THE CITY OF TIRANA” Pren Domgjoni.....................................................................116 ”INTEGRATION OF DISASTER RISK ASSESMENT MANAGMENT INTO SPATIAL URBAN PLANNING” Rudina Vasili (Jonuzi)..........................................................118 ”VISION OF THE COMMUNE BERZHITE”

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THE CONTRIBUTION OF COLORS IN ALBANIAN CITIES IDENTITY AND IMAGE FOCUSING ON THE CASE STUDY OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Isela Janku Aida Ciro

In a context of informal and rapid development, Albanian cities result to have encountered some difficulties in handling them. They also constantly face problems with territory managing, overcrowded traffic, noise and waste management difficulties, all problems created by informality and a lack of urban planning resulting in a questionable, unclear identity.

This research study focuses on ways in which cities can claim back their identity and ensure to preserve a proper identity. This research struggles to find out which are the right measures and the urban interventions that have to be undertaken.

During the 2000s, following the change of the political system and restricted local government budgets, colors were chosen as a means to contribute to the city’s attempts to reclaim its identity and image. For the purposes of this research, the focus was placed on the Albanian capital, Tirana, which was subjected to such color-related urban interventions, early in 2003, representing the first city where colors were used purposefully by the local authorities.

At the time, Tirana was experiencing great urban growth, and in the absence of housing possibilities, families started reshaping their houses through multiple room and balcony extensions, resulting in the complete alteration of the façades. Such unguided, unplanned, and more often than not informal interventions

interfered and distorted the city (Urban Regulatory Plan, Partially revised at the time.)

Given the context and the local government level (restricted budget, lack of know-how, lack of capacities), colors were deemed as a convenient, visible and effective instrument to flatten out the rising differences in façades.

The purpose of this thesis is to provide an understanding of the effects and contribution of the colors used for changing the city’s facades, with the possibility of producing replicable knowledge that can be used by other cities. The study makes use of a case study, that of Tirana, and field observation of the main places and façades, where the colorful interventions took place.

In conclusion, the use of colors can be determined as an urban social, artistic, interventions, because it includes both aspects, social contribution and the artistic one. It affects people’s life with helping them feel better. They influence to the tourism and economy because main small business points are near these areas. Thus, this intervention is to be considered but it is not the only option. There is a long list of things that need to be done by local and other authorities in the future. The colored facades contribution in softening the chaotic planning is also to be considered but more work has to be done by organizing them better, combining public spaces with more green areas.

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PROPERTY RELATIONS AND THE [TRANS]FORMATION OF THE URBAN BLOCK IN POST COMMUNIST CITIES Student: Supervisor:

Besmira Dyca Rudina Toto

The constant transformation of the urban landscape in Albanian cities, besides an authentic representation of socio-economic dynamics within the city, serves at the same time as a laboratory in which the underlying causes of such transformations can be explored. This thesis focuses on the exploration of the relation between property relations established after the ’90s in Albania and the transformation of the communist-era housing block in Tirana.

More specifically, the research focuses on the informal transformations and extensions of communist-era housing blocks which started after their privatization in 1992 and nowadays represents the most common conditions in which one can find such blocks in the main urban areas in Albania. Some of these extensions and interventions were accompanied by the occupation of publicly owned or private shared land and by the occupation of constructed areas of shared ownership, such as terraces in the case of floor additions or communal spaces used for circulation inside the buildings, etc. In many cases these types of interventions were done without any technical support, risking to jeopardize the whole structure of the buildings in which they were imple-

mented or causing other milder construction problems such as roof leakages.

The objective of this study is to contribute to state policies seeking to prevent informal interventions in communist-era housing blocks by analyzing and estimating the ways in which property relations established after the ’90s in Albania influenced the (informal) transformations of the communist-era housing blocks in the post-communist city of Tirana. The focus will be on the context of Albania and the most representative example of such transformations, the city of Tirana.

In conclusion, authorities should be appointed with the necessary legal provisions which would enable them to implement increment in land value capture mechanisms, as a way to control land markets and finance public infrastructure.

Furthermore, institutions should be very careful when dealing with informality.

Curative measures should be elaborated based on thorough technical analyses of the existing situation. They should be aware of the implications that programs, such as entitling, upgrading etc, have on the property relations they establish and, in turn, in the land and housing market.

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SKOPJE - A DIVIDED CITY

STUDY OF THE SOCIAL AND POLITICAL FACTORS THAT HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO THE ETHIC DIVISION OF THE CITY OF SKOPJESINCE THE CATASTROPHIC EARTHQUAKE IN 1963 UNTIL TODAY Student: Supervisor:

Elizabeta Poljoska Doris Andoni

Artifacts show that the city of Skopje has gone from antic, to medieval, Turkish , to a socialistcity and then a sudden earthquake in 1963 largely destroyed a huge amount of it. The reaction and aftereffects of this natural catastrophe caused a series of events: the whole world responded to the call for help and it came immediately in many forms – Skopje became a symbol of the world’s solidarity and was to carry the idea of being a city of brotherhood and unity for all the socialist countries.

The image it represents today, does not derive from this idea; it was deformed by the current of events that only deepened the ethnic division within the city. Even though social segregation ora grouping of the same ethnic groups in one neighborhood has been a practice for a long time, it only really became a problem that gradually grew in a short period of time since the earthquake in 1963 until nowadays. While the destroyed city was to be rebuilt anew, the discourse of the different areas’ development materi-

alized in different forms.

Today Skopje is a home of about half a million inhabitants of many different ethnic groups. Skopje today is as an ethnically divided city, with the Muslim population taking the biggest part on the left bank, the northern part of the city while the Christians occupy the right of the river Vardar, the southern part of the city. The reasons for the ethnic segregation of the population are different from segregation based on social-economic reasons, but they are not necessarily fully complete and independent from/ with one another. Segregation can relate to all social and demographic aspects: age, class, ethnic background, religion, income and social class, or a combination of these. Ethnic segregation doesn’t acknowledge the material factors as basic ones; it means grouping in terms of ethnicity or nationality, regardless of economic state, level of education, or differences that emerge from the individuals’ professions; yet, the possibility that it can overlap with other types of segregation

also cannot be excluded. The need to live within one’s own group can be motivated from different reasons that don’t necessarily have a reasonable background.

Prejudices, stereotypes, distrust towards others, can be some of the motifs. Grouping on an ethnic, religious or national basis is mostly evident in the Albanian, Turkish and Romani population in the places where they live. In the certain parts of the city the grouping has become much more distinct and isolated. In the central area, however, the differences between these small neighborhoods and the surrounding areas makes the segregation more distinct.

Skopje didn’t have the capacity to carry the role of city of brotherhood and unity: it remained divided, regardless of the attempts. It is a city where segregation can be researched on many levels of social and demographic aspects. It has been one of the crucial elements in shaping the city and is still very counterproductive for the development of the city.

Today, Skopje is given a new role; as a capital, it has to show to the world that Macedonia is a country with history and identity. A lot of new building shave set the stage for this purpose.

Within the city center and its most immediate proximity, layers of artifacts from different historical periods overlap. The identity and continuity of the citizen of Skopje stems from an exalted and indifferent, but certainly controversial matrix, of its own, composed of generally three systems of values: traditionalist, socio-realistic and modern. Besides the richness of culture, or any attribute that can be given for this phenomenon, there lay much deeper existential problems of certain population groups. These layers can be recognized on the left side of the river: the city is not only divided into a Muslim and Christian part, but it is the ‘Muslim’ part that further exhibits different forms and levels of ethnic and social segregation.

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NATURAL KOSOVA

RECYCLING - WASTE COLLECTION SYSTEM IN UNIVERSITY OF PRISHTINA Student: Supervisor:

Fjolla Perjuci Redion Biba

The key challenges of our generation and the generations to come, is finding the balance between the human way of life on one hand and the environment on the other hand. Human beings have consistently been destroying our planet since the industrial revolution, polluting the air, earth and water in search for more energy, natural resources, transportation solutions, production etc. Although there has been technological advancement, the planet is still being destroyed on a large scale every year by chemical products, oils, industrial and human waste.

The main objective of this thesis proposal is the design of an efficient solid waste collection system at the UP faculties and UP campus in the capital city of Pristina.

The proposed system is not meant to replace the existing municipal waste collection system but rather begin a new one at UP where it currently does not exist.

The specific objective is the evaluation of whether the waste collection system at UP and UP campus is a feasible waste management option able to sustain itself in the long run. It aims to introduce a new way of dealing with waste, involve UP teachers and students in a sustainable waste management initiative which might bring economic and social benefits for UP, in addition to the environmental and financial ones .

The idea of designing a waste collection system at universities has multiple advantages in the sense that people are employed, the environment at UP/UP campus is kept clean and private waste collection companies and the UP have

the possibility of generating a profit.

This thesis is also about the environmental awareness and the development of an environmental conscience of the UP students.

The UP and UP campus consists of a segregated student campus and 14 Universities scattered throughout the capital of Pristina. The waste collection system will encompass all 14 universities and the UP campus, in which customized, fun, easy to follow waste collection bins, categorized according to the type of waste, will be installed at key positions.

A mutual beneficial relationship between a private waste collection company and UP will allow them to retrieve all sorted waste at all 14 universities and the campus. The funds from the sale of this sorted waste will be used for classes and events so as to raise awareness with the UPstudents being part of this scheme.

In conclusion, the study undertaken in this thesis explains the fact that UP faculties and the UP campus are entities very much needed in Kosovo. They are the pillars of education in Kosovo and, assuch an entity, they are expected to produce many generations of young graduates that shall enter the workforce.

The current situation at the UP is that the idea of protecting the environment has not been prioritized. Therefore, the steps have been taken toward any sort of careful planning toward “going green�, a trend that is very big in western European countries.

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HOUSING MARKET IN TIRANA

EVALUATION OF THE ISSUES THAT THE MARKET IS FACING AND GUIDELINES TO A BETTER MANAGEMENT OF INVESTMESNTS IN THE SECTOR Student: Supervisor:

Mireda Thana Doris Andoni

The content of this study consists in the presentation of the main characteristics of the housing market in Tirana. The transition from a centralized system into a democracy, how the shift has affected Albanian life in general and the housing sector specifically, are treated here.

Albania offers a very interesting overview of the property management, property rights and legal instruments that were used in order to regulate the market and a very complex relationship between the state and its citizens especially after the ‘90s. The lack of institutional and legal intervention, especially during the first period of Democracy, resulted in a very serious problems of the housing sector, especially property rights problems like more than one legal owner for the same property.

This study offers a general overview of the relations between providers of housing units, among private and public sector in Tirana, and the demand side of the market. It may serve as a basis leading to further researches and questions about the housing market in Tirana for anyone, professional or not, who is in-

terested in this topic.

The research for this thesis is based on different studies concerning the market economy, the regulatory role of the state, historical trends of development in the housing market, businesses and construction industry, housing policies and other topics that help us reach for some scientific methods which will aid us in understanding and explaining the key components driving the housing market in Tirana.

In conclusion this study wants to show that infrastructure is very important in order to improve the housing market in Tirana. There are a few things to be done for the already developed areas, such as, the government should concentrate on maintaining green and public spaces in the city center and also limit the urban development in the periphery.

Several areas should be addressed for parks, cultural activities, and recreational spaces. Meanwhile annual funds should be budgeted to maintain the existing infrastructure and further extend public services to other areas of the city.

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LAND MANAGMENT INSTRUMENTS - FROM TIRANA LGP AT NEIGHBORHOOD LEVEL Student: Supervisor:

Boriana Golgota Anila Gjika

Land management instruments are regulatory parameters used by Local General Territorial Plan of Tirana (LGP) and “Territorial Planning” Law to promote efficient management of urban and rural land and guarantee legal issues of property. This master thesis describes relevant instruments by going through LGP to Local Detailed Plans (LDP), by “zooming in” neighborhood level.

The analysis is done in six steps: the first step is the analysis of the historical situation of planning in Tirana, the second step is the analysis of legal issues and definitions from Tirana LGP and other relevant laws, the third step is focused on one specific area by analyzing sub-unit characteristics, the fourth step is the design of a master plan by keeping defined indicators, the fifth step is a cost-benefit analysis, the last step poses some conclu-

sions and recommendations on approval of these interventions from all stakeholders.

The purpose of this study is to design a LDP taking into account LGP definitions. This thesis can lead to learning what instruments to use in different cases and how these parameters condition the designing process. Furthermore, I pose some conclusions on problems arising through this process and ways to improve and cooperate with stakeholders.

Conclusions were posed based on the cost-benefit analysis, which is generated from the master plan proposed for the selected sub-unit.These results offer constructive criticism and posed suggestions on how to assure the balance between public and private interest and the role of municipality in this process.

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ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE OF DURRES AND MANAGEMENT PLAN Student: Supervisor:

Edlira Mema Loris Rossi

This master thesis’s main objective is the archaeological heritage of Durres and a Management Plan for it. It is organized into two parts, the first part is an inventory and description of the periods and historical sites of Durres and the second part consists on the design of an Archaeological Management Plan for Durres.

A Management Plan is mandatory from the directives of the Operational Guidelines for the implementation of the World Heritage Convention ’72. It became a necessity for Durres after 1990, since the two thousand years ancient city was slowly disappearing inside the contemporary city with its chaotic vigorous development.

In this thesis were made several attempts and approaches for the vision of the city, evaluation and protection of archaeological heritage, the management strategies, the preservation systems and the stimulation of heritage tourism and social values of the landscape.

The research method for this study goes through several steps beginning with a background of the history of Durres, followed by research questions and objectives. The literature review and theory about Albanian legal framework for archaeological heritage, the Master plan and Regulatory Plan of Durres were also part of the research phases ending with the case studies of “Ancient archaeological park of Tarraco city” and “World

Heritage City of Graz Historic Centre and Management Plan 2007”. The research for the ancient city of Durres dealt with the inventory and description of the archeological heritage of Durres and the archaeological management plan. It focused on the effort to return the “ruins” of Durres to their original role in the urban context in an innovative and sustainable way. The treatment, protection, rehabilitation, restoration and management of archaeological underground as a potential historical heritage of the city must be done according the legal procedures and based on a proper archaeological management plan.

The overall aim of this management plan was to make the archaeological heritage of Durres more accessible at all levels from local residents to a wider international audience. This might be achieved through promoting the city with a clear vision, enhancing human resources and developing a heritage management plan. The management plan aims to achieve this through the implementation of the management plan, associated training programs and educational initiatives.

The final goal of the management plan was to increase public awareness and interest for the heritage and to promote the educational and cultural value of the archaeological landscape as a whole.

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INFORMAL URBAN DEVELOPMENTS IN TIRANA THE ACTUAL CHALLANGES AND PROPOSED SOLUTIONS Student: Supervisor:

Enejda Seraj Sotir Dhamo

This research study is about informal urban developments in Tirana and the actual challenges and proposed solutions. The phenomenon of informal settlements has characterized Tirana, the capital of Albania, since the fall of communism in the ’90-tis. The main drivers behind this phenomenon have been political, economic and socio-demographic transformations.

The objective of this thesis is to investigate the phenomenon of informal urban developments in Tirana through the exploration of this process since its beginning until nowadays, focusing on the efforts made over time to improve the situation in order to analyze what has failed to work so far and, consequently, evidence the next challenges and offer recommendations. All this will be achieved by undertaking a literature review based on existing information from government reports, national and international organizations, institutes, NGO-s, interviews etc.

In order to better understand the phenomenon in the Albanian context, focusing on Tirana as the “par excellence� example, it was very important to know and analyze what former efforts were

made in order to stop the phenomenon or improve the situation and, most importantly, identify the lessons learned from these past attempts. The actors of such actions ranged from local NGO-s to international organizations and the government. The main reason why some of these projects failed or did not scale up in at a national level consisted of the incapability of the Albanian Government and institutions to get organized and to implement the projects.

The next challenges are determining polices and tools to provide the financial means which will really cover the urbanization and provision of infrastructure of these areas, will be used to compensate the former owners, and, also to integrate these areas in the city of Tirana through territorial planning.

In conclusion, the two urgent next steps to be taken in order to improve the situation in the informal development areas of Tirana would be the establishment of a well-functioning system through institutional reforms and regulations, which guarantee the proper coordination among the different actors and then create funding strategies by mobilizing all potential recourses within the urban community.

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CITY IDENTITY

FASCIST URBAN PLANNING OF DURRES Student: Supervisor:

Johana Klemo Loris Rossi

The urban environment is a reflection of peoples` values and demands.

Lately, Durres has submitted the new regulatory plan. Triggered by this submission it was thought to go back in history to deal with first regulatory plan, which is an Italian master plan. The historical context of the case is the fascist period.

This master thesis intends to understand the contribution of this period in to the urban aspect. It tries to link the special planning and the image of city through the spatial instruments. To avoid a misunderstanding of terminologies, we will refer to the term sub-identity as one part of the whole city identity. All the inherited historic structures showcase their periods` character but not each of them can carry the identity of the city. The sub-identity of the Italian structure is the case that will drive the thesis because of its persistence, legibility, scale and placement. How does it perform nowadays after crucial changes in the political, economic, and social life, and what can be

done to improve it?

An analysis of fascist interventions will explain ideological elements that shaped city before and during the Regulatory plan of 1942. One of the main approaches to this thesis is the revitalization of the historic centre as an object of Italian cultural heritage belonging to the fascist period.

Cities would not be cities if they did not change, so it is not normal to stop people’s activity and the development process but rules should be in place to safeguard a responsible and reasonable development. Therefore, amongst recommendations, will be one is a planning instrument that will strengthen the city’s identity, while helping this structure result advantageous in terms of an economic and social aspect.

This way, it might serve anyone that is interested in Albanian urban planning during the fascist period and, specifically, Durres.

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IMPROVING URBAN MOBILITY

FOR THE CITY OF DURRES THROUGH SUSTAINABLE PLANNING, MEASURES AND STRATEGIES Student: Supervisor:

Klea Papando Elvan Dajko

Transport and traffic is one of the greater problems in our cities that directly affects the quality of life and health of the inhabitants and has a significant impact on the environment, while simultaneously being a driving factor of the economy. In this regard, the improvement of the mobility and accessibility has been the planners’ main issues. This research study’s main objective is to create this improvement. Sustainable urban mobility should be more efficient, affordable, safe and offer different choices of transportation modes, giving priority to pedestrians, public transport, bicycles and other un-motorized vehicles. The thesis’ main goal is to change the behavior of car users by offering high-quality public transportation or other sustainable mobility modes, in order to improve the use of space and the quality of life in the city.

In this context, a lot of strategies and theories have been developed throughout the world, considering different flows of transportation and giving integrated solutions.

The city of Durres is the second largest city of Albania. During the last decade, due to the political developments of the country, the city has undergone many changes, affecting the mobil-

ity situation of the city. The thesis offers an insight on the evolution of mobility in Albania, the role of Durres as a strategic city in the economic developments of the country and how these conditions have affected the current situation in the city.

The environmental and social impacts of this mobility situation are considerable, so the study analyzes the data, giving reliable solutions. Different modes of transportation are analyzed separately, in order to find the problems, while the solutions proposed through scenarios, polices and measures are integrated.

The main issues have been regulating the National and Urban Freight transport, due to the strategic position of the city where all main national corridors meet, the main port in the country is located, the proximity to the national airport and Tirana. Improvements in the public transportation service have been main improvements in the city, while solving the mobility situation in the city center through sustainability directives.

The research gives a clear view of the overall mobility situation in the city, giving offering strategies for improvements in the most needy fields. These strategies will help make the city a better environment to live in.

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SUSTAINABLE URBAN MOBILITY

IMPROVING THE CONDITIONS FOR PEDESTRIAN AND NMVS

Student: Supervisor:

Orion Hasanaj Besnik Aliaj

In the last two decades after the 1990s, Tirana, the capital of Albania, has overcome many great changes and has tried to emulate the western capitalist way of development. In contrast with the past periods of development, the city is enjoying great economic benefits, but is also suffering from two major issues that are afflicting every modern city of our time: population growth and environmental pollution. These two issues are making Tirana inefficient and unlivable to a certain degree. Therefore, a sustainable development is foreseen as a countermeasure to these current issues.

This thesis tries to focus on sustainable urban mobility, more specifically on improving the conditions for pedestrians and Non-Motorized Vehicles (NMVs), which is seen as the most efficient and easiest ways for reaching a sustainable development. The research went through an examination of Tirana’s past in order to assess the roots of today’s problems.

Furthermore, the research focuses on the present by studying the current problems and most importantly, it evaluates the implications that the current urban mobility has on the environment and socioeconomic factors. The study was approached with a qualitative methodology, composed

of primary and secondary sources, which combined together, constructed a chronology of episodes. Moreover, it also tried to focus on three different case studies around the world that share or have shared in the past, many similarities with Tirana’s current circumstances.

These cases were very helpful in learning in terms of useful international practices and experiences, in order to address the problems that Albania’s capital is undergoing. The theoretical framework was based on the paradigms developed

by David Banister regarding sustainable urban mobility. In addition, a variety of concepts and points of view from different theoreticians were included in order to explain in-depth every single issue presented in this study. The thesis concludes that several policies and regulations should be enforced for encouraging the use of Non-Motorized Transportation (NMT) modes. This research study also provides schemes and different solutions to facilitate the implementation of the required infrastructure in Tirana. Most importantly, in the end, the thesis emphasizes the idea that without changing the citizen’s behavior toward urban mobility, the road toward achieving sustainability would be long and difficult.

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INTEGRATION OF DISASTER RISK ASSESMENT MANAGEMENT INTO SPATIAL URBAN PLANNING CASE STUDY OF KOSOVA Student: Supervisor:

Pren Domgjoni Luljeta Bozo

This research thesis is about the integration of disaster risk assessment management into spatial urban planning specified to the study case of Kosovo.

Findings from literature review confirm that in some of the Municipal and Urban Development Plans there are partial hazard maps integrated into plans. Hazard types in Kosovo, mentioned in most of the plans, are flooding, forest fire, and erosion. Some of the plans do not show the location of hazards, but described it in text. Some plans include hazard maps; however, there are almost no measures proposed. The only measures proposed are limited to engineering technical intervention such as riverbed improvement.

The results from this field survey reveal that Kosovo is exposed to different types of hazards such as floods, earthquakes, forest fires, landslides, avalanches and hail. The knowledge of professionals dealing with planning and emergency management for the integration of DRAM into planning is limited. The practice shows that disaster is considered a responsibility of emergency departments in the Municipalities and Agency for Emergency Management in Kosovo.

Concerning the legislation framework, I can conclude that it is still more oriented towards response than preparedness.

The law for natural disaster and other disasters is not harmonized with a law on spatial planning. Lack of spatial data on hazards and vulnerability is also one of the main issues.

The Kosovo spatial plan, the municipal and urban development plans contain hazard maps. However, the hazards are only partially considered and the integrated risk map which takes into consideration vulnerability and hazards lacks in all plans.

The weak cooperation between different levels of institutions and different stakeholders was evident during the survey. While there are documents in different institutions, there is lack of information due to the poor coordination and spatial data sharing. The knowledge on the importance of the integration of the Disaster Assessment and Management into Spatial and Urban Planning is very limited. In conclusion, there are no clear measures for climate change adoption and disasters risk reduction provided by planning documents. The disaster risk assessment should be mainstreamed into planning documents and legislation framework for a disaster risk reduction and the creation of creating resilient communities.

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VISION OF THE COMMUNE BERZHITE ANALYSIS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF TERRITORY Student: Supervisor:

Rudina Vasili (Jonuzi) Besnik Aliaj

The purpose of this study is a plan for territory development for the next 15 years (since previous plans have already failed on providing a complete vision), which takes into consideration all elements that play a key role in a sustainable development e.g, efficient management of natural resources, increase of efficiency of land, protection of agricultural land and natural landscapes, planning of touristic areas, returning the identity of damaged ecosystems, etc.

The aim of the study is to anticipate the economic, and social development, and tourism of the Berzhita commune. This report did not only take into consideration all elements of development, but also the protection and regeneration of the environment. Regarding of vision objectives, every possible aspect that could impact the future urban development as well as the socio-economic one has been taken into consideration.

The purpose of these objectives is to ensure that the investment process in the major infrastructure and public services in the future to be efficient and feasible as well. This study examines various aspects of the development of the territory in relation to the current situation and trends and provided a detailed analysis of the urban environment as a whole, the economic & social activities, the infrastructure and service providers and of the environment and heritage monuments built up to now.

In conclusion, among other recommendations for the implementation of the goals, this research study proposes the improvement of the access between settlements in the area through the development of public infrastructure. Improving access between settlements and the maintenance of local roads have become strategic priorities for the commune of Berzhite.

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Urban Social Development & Human Resources 2013-2014

Arber Hoti............................................................................122 ”PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN URBAN PLANNING”

Erli Zdrava............................................................................124 ”THE DEVELOPMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES AT THE MANAGERIAL LEVEL IN PUBLC ADMINISTRATON”

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PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN URBAN PLANNING

THE CASE OF URBAN REGULATORY PLAN OF TIRANA 2013 AND MASTERPLAN FOR THE EXTENSION OF TIRANA’S NORTHERN BOULEVARD Student: Supervisor:

Arber Hoti Peter Nintied

Public participation in urban planning is a relatively new concept in Albanian reality. Planning efforts especially in informal areas have tried to introduce the concept in order to seek citizen acceptability for the urbanization of these areas. The partial urban plan of Bathore, realized by Co – Plan (Institute for Habitat Development) in cooperation with the Project for the Management of Urban Land (World Bank), is an example of planning in cooperation with the community.

The Albanian Law on Territorial Planning No. 10 119, date 23.04.2009 foresees Public Hearings as a form of public participation in urban planning.

Article 37 of this law gives a detailed insight on the rules and methods public hearings are conducted.

Urban Planning in Albania has been mainly driven by political agendas and private economic interests of a few. Thus, serving this purpose the planning process has been constantly hidden from the public eye. Proper information on urban plans is difficult to acquire by common citizens who want to learn about projects that affect the value of their property and in general the public interest. This study search shows how recent planning efforts and urban development projects in Tirana have produced social and political conflict. These conflicts are bound to generate financial and econom-

ic damages to the city and eventually to the public interest.

The purpose of this study is to examine the process of public participation in the case of the New Regulatory Plan of Tirana 2013 along with the Master Plan for the extension of Tirana’s Northern Boulevard. These cases have become hot topics as a result of public protests and political conflict. We will try to find out whether the methods of participation used in these cases have been efficient in representing the public will and interest. This thesis proposal does not exclusively aim at analyzing only the process of public hearings but rather give a broader picture of the context in which these consultations were held and the results they have produced.

The final product of this study aims at demonstrating how transparent and reachable has the process of planning been for the general public and other interest groups. An important recommendation is that the increased engagement of communities in participation can contribute to greater approval for urban plans and projects. Greater approval for projects can build trust between authorities and people. Thus transparency and trust make it more difficult to manipulate the public will. In this context public participation in urban planning remains a powerful tool for the protection of public interest.

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THE DEVELOPMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES AT THE MANAGERIAL LEVEL IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION Student: Supervisor:

Erli Zdrava Peter Nientied

In a the democratic system of our days, where the reduction of public spending and increased efficiency in the various offices, are two of the major concerns of public administration, the role of human resources assumes a central importance especially in regards to this second aspect. The role of managers in central and local government remains of crucial importance in the discharge of the functions of government in the various realities, which main role is the concrete realization of the various political guidelines given by the political bodies.

This study analyzes the issues of the recruitment of public employees and their career opportunities, specifically of the top managers of the central and local

institutions provided by the laws in power conducting a historical analysis of the issues that have led to the recent reform of the law for the civil service. The implications of the regulatory framework concerning the recruitment in the public administration with regards to the attraction of the young talents educated mainly abroad, and the possibility of the local government to participate in competition with other entities, not only public, in the so-called “war for talent�, were also evaluated.

Albania cannot be absent from cases in which there is an interference on the part of the political bodies in relation to those of the managerial level, more purely administrative, also favored

by the fiduciary relationship that binds these two levels. This may also have various implications in regards to the quality and efficiency of the work of these high officials of the local administration.

This research study also treats the issues about the quality of work done by the top managers and the guarantees provided by the law on their independence by the interference of political bodies, in the accomplishment of purely administrative tasks, assigned to them.

The final product of this research study wants to show that moving into a professional administration, created on the merit basis is still in a difficult process in other European Countries like Bulgaria and Romania. The implementation of ter-

ritorial reforms, with the enlargement of the administrative boundaries and revenues, will increase the possibilities of a complete implementation of the reform on the civil service in regard to top managers. In regards to these reforms, we have to see how they will generally be implemented in order to reach the necessary detailed specification about the senior civil service, with the division between the technical-administrative tasks and political indications. This division, with the creation of a cooperative model different from the hierarchical one, will help to better achieve the municipal objectives in terms of providing better services, qualitatively and quantitatively.

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ENVIRONMENTAL & STUDIES

2010-2013

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Environmental Studies 2012 - 2013 Art Bejtullahu..............................................................130 ”APPLYING ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGMENT”

Eugen Dedaj...............................................................131 “EROSION AND PRECAUTIONS IN THE FAN BASINS”

Elvis Gjika...................................................................132 “HYDRODINAMIC STUDIES IN THE BRIDGE”

Silva Dako..................................................................133 “EVALATION OF BIODIVERSITY IN THE KASHARVORE AREA”

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APPLYING ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGMENT

EROSION AND PRECAUTIONS IN THE UNITED FAN BASIN

Student: Supervisor:

Student: Supervisor:

Art Bejtullahu Teida Shehi

This thesis investigates about the role of the environment management system in small and medium enterprises.

These kinds of enterprises are the most numerous in the whole world. More than 95% of the world’s business companies are small or medium. Even in Albania, these kinds of businesses are considered to be as the best way of economic growth and employment. Thus, international standards, especially Environmental Management Systems (MES) help Small and Medium Businesses (SMB) and society in general.

The purpose of this thesis is a brief synopsis of the importance of environmental management systems, taking

into consideration local and international conditions, offering conclusions and recommendations, in order to implement these systems in the existing context.

After analyzing the historic frame, the author raised the main objectives and theoretical basis. Questions and hypothesis were raised, analyzing the actual state in our country by using contemporary research methods. Research results were illustrated with tables and other graphic methods. The conclusions that came out from the research were used to create practical recommendations, which could easily be applied in our country.

Eugen Dedaj Nasip Meçaj

This research thesis investigates the measures of erosion control, taking as a case study the basin of the river Fan. Erosion is a very problematic phenomenon in this basin area of the river, causing agricultural and forest land degradation.

Therefore, the thesis aims to address the main environmental impact caused by hydrodynamic changes and interventions.

In conclusion, the thesis proposes precautions through the biological control

of the river erosion, rehabilitation strategies, in order to deal with such problems in the area, and a monetary estimation of the overall intervention.

The final result of this thesis might serve as a model for the case of the Rubik Municipality, orienting the future investment of the municipality towards minimizing the damage created by erosion in agricultural and forestland around the river Fan.

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HYDRODINAMIC STUDIES IN THE BRIDGE

EVALIATION OF BIODIVERSITY IN THE KASHAR VORE AREA

Student: Supervisor:

Student: Supervisor:

Isida Rrapi Sherif Lushaj

This research thesis evaluates hydrodynamic problems and the environmental impact along the Vjosa River from the river gorge spill to the bridge of Mifol.

The Vjosa River is among the largest rivers in the southern region of Albania. Through its path, many hydromechanics problems were detected like water pollution, sediments, erosion, changes in the coastal line, etc. mainly caused by human activities.

The most problematic segment is the one extending from the Mifol Bridge to the coast, covering a 17 km length. In the river banks, many interventions have

lead to the instability of the soil, interventions like a dangerous usage of inert, damage of engineering defensive structures, massive land erosion around the river, floods, transport of urban waste in the coastline, reduction of fauna, damage of water distribution systems, etc.

This thesis focusing on erosion as a significant problem in the area around the basin, leading to agricultural and forest land degradation, aims to prevent and repair soil erosion. In conclusion, there were proposed precautions and rehabilitation strategies in order to deal with such problems in the area.

Silva Dako Taulant Bino

This research thesis is focused on the biodiversity assessment impact in view of the sustainable development of the Kashar – VorÍ sector.

Starting from anadvanced research and analyses of the development plans of the Kashar Commune and Vora Municipality etc., and elaborating terrain observations, it resulted that there is a conflict between the environment and current development, as well as potential plans for the urban development of the territory. This conflict was the central topic of the thesis.

During the research and field inception it was noticed that the local inhabitants have a low appreciation for the natural characteristics of the area, its biodiversity and landscape conservation.

This attitude could be noticed in the bad behavior towards the values of biodiversity, up to the lack of preservation. It

these conditions, creating and implementing plans for preservation and sustainable development of the area becomes a necessity.

This study aims to contribute to the preservation and improvement in the biological diversity of Kashar-Vore are, as well as include policies and principles of a stable development , and Sectoral plans for the development of the area.

In conclusion the thesis gives a set of recommendations to be implemented in order to improve the biodiversity in the area.

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